Looking for a dessert that’s both easy to make and delicious? Try my Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars! With a creamy filling and a nutty crust, these treats blend sweet cherries and rich cream cheese like a match made in heaven. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and bring these bars to life!
Ingredients
For these Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars, you need to gather some simple yet delicious ingredients. Let’s break them down into two main parts: the crust and the filling.
Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
The crust is the base of our bars. Almond flour gives it a nutty flavor. Coconut oil adds richness and a hint of sweetness from the maple syrup balances the taste. The salt enhances all these flavors.
Filling Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
The filling is creamy and rich. Cream cheese is the star here, providing that classic cheesecake taste. Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and creaminess. Sugar and vanilla extract sweeten the mix. The eggs bind the filling together. We fold in cherries for a fruity touch. Finally, sliced almonds on top give a nice crunch. These ingredients create a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps with easy removal later.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
4. Mix until the ingredients look like wet sand.
5. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
1. In a separate bowl, beat together:
- 1 (8 oz) package softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
3. Add 2 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. The mixture should be fluffy and fully combined.
Assembling and Baking
1. Gently stir in 1 cup of halved cherries into the cheesecake filling.
2. Pour this filling over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
3. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of sliced almonds on top. This adds a nice crunch.
4. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The center should be set but may still jiggle slightly.
5. Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
7. Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper.
8. Cut into bars and serve.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get a smooth and creamy filling, ensure your cream cheese is softened. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps. Leave it out for about 30 minutes before use. Also, avoid overmixing after you add eggs. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy bars. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we don’t want.
Decorating Your Cheesecake Bars
For a beautiful presentation, arrange the cheesecake bars on a decorative platter. Garnish each bar with fresh cherries for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added crunch. This makes your dessert look as good as it tastes!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your cheesecake bars with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. This adds rich flavors and makes each bite even better. Best drinks to serve include iced tea or sparkling water. Both options cleanse the palate and complement the sweet taste. Enjoy your treats with family and friends!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your cheesecake bars easily. Try using different fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Each fruit brings its unique taste. You can even mix fruits to create a fun blend. If you want a twist on the crust, use crushed graham crackers or oats instead of almond flour. This gives a different texture and flavor. You might enjoy a chocolate crust for a rich touch.
Dietary Adjustments
Do you need a gluten-free option? Simply swap the almond flour with gluten-free flour. This small change keeps the bars tasty and safe for everyone. If you prefer vegan options, use plant-based cream cheese and yogurt. You can also replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. This keeps the cheesecake creamy and delicious. Making these changes allows everyone to enjoy this treat.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your cherry almond cheesecake bars in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. They taste best after chilling for at least four hours. These bars will last for up to five days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze cheesecake bars, first, let them cool completely. Then, cut the bars into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer.
To thaw, take them out and put them in the fridge overnight. This method keeps the texture nice. Avoid thawing them at room temperature, as that can make them too soft.
FAQs
How long do Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars need to chill?
These bars need to chill for at least 4 hours. Chilling helps the flavors blend and the bars set properly. For best results, I recommend chilling them overnight. This makes the bars firm and easy to cut. Plus, the longer they chill, the creamier they taste.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese. It will change the texture a bit. The bars may be less creamy and rich. Low-fat cream cheese can make the filling slightly denser. If you want a lighter option, this works, but full-fat gives the best flavor.
What’s the best way to cut cheesecake bars?
To cut cheesecake bars cleanly, use a sharp knife. Dip the knife in hot water before cutting. This helps the knife glide through the bars smoothly. Wipe the knife after each cut to keep edges clean. For a nice presentation, arrange the bars on a platter with fresh cherries and almond slices on top.
In this blog post, we covered how to make Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars. You learned about the simple ingredients for both the crust and filling. We shared clear steps for prepping the crust, making the filling, and baking the bars. Plus, we offered tips for perfect texture and fun variations. Remember to store your treats well, either in the fridge or freezer.
I hope these ideas inspire you to create your own delicious cheesecake bars. Enjoy the tasty results!
